An announced crowd of 12,582 packed into the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA to attend last night’s Big Night Aht, produced and presented by Pat McAfee and his Pat McAfee Show. What was billed as a night of fun, entertainment, and massive giveaways for the attending audience delivered, as the former Indianapolis Colts punter turned media star held court with his dedicated audience—all awaiting what was next in the first-of-its-kind variety show featuring celebrities, athletes, and impromptu concerts.
Additionally, the event was live streamed on several social media platforms, including YouTube and X, and watched by hundreds of thousands of viewers live. Although it kicked off a half hour later than scheduled, McAfee took the stage and used the first half hour to tell his story. He also addressed current issues surrounding the show, including a rumor involving Ole Miss student Mary Kate Cornett, which had previously been discussed on McAfee’s show in February.
“I didn’t want to add any more negativity as it was taking place as I did,” McAfee said, addressing the student albeit not saying Cornett’s name. “We will try to figure that out and make some sort of silver lining in a very terrible situation.”
Moreover, McAfee opened the night by informing all those watching that Aaron Rodgers would not be attending the show, despite circulating reports suggesting he could be playing football for the Pittsburgh Steelers next season.
Throughout the evening, the night was filled with concerts—both professionally performed and impromptu karaoke sessions—by acts such as Jelly Roll, Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, and Parker McCollum. In addition, the WWE contributed to the production and set design of the event and provided appearances by WWE superstar Jey Uso and announcer Michael Cole, who teams with McAfee on Monday Night Raw on Netflix.
Later in the night, a live sumo wrestling match entertained the audience as Cole and McAfee called the action live from the stage, while comedian Shane Gillis served as guest referee.
However, the highlight of the night for the local Pittsburgh crowd was the combination of three Pittsburgh sports figures sharing the stage at the same time. Former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was joined on stage by Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby and Pittsburgh Pirates ace starter Paul Skenes. The three shared a lighthearted conversation while throwing footballs through hoops, racking up what would be the final giveaway of the evening for the viewing audience in the arena—which landed at two million dollars.
Furthermore, throughout the evening, pledges were made to several local organizations, including Special Olympics Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh Public Schools. Several fans in the arena walked away with cash prizes ranging from $20,000 to the grand prize of $2 million dollars, totaling nearly $2.5 million for the night.
“All of you have been so amazing tonight, I can’t thank you enough,” stated McAfee at the end of the event.
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